Roller brake tests to ensure practical outcomes

Trials of roller brake testing methods were conducted this week at Marulan Heavy Vehicle Testing Station ahead of next month’s end of transition arrangements in NSW

The testing was co-ordinated by the Australian Trucking Association (ATA), while the joint initiative involves Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA), New South Wales Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

The testing will allow comparisons of different roller brake testing methods and will help align with the standards set in the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual (NHVIM).

ATA Chief Executive Ben Maguire said the overall issue has been causing frustration for both operators and the regulator.

“All that any of us want is to create the safest possible outcome,” Mr Maguire said.

“However, to achieve that we need guidelines and rules about brake performance and testing procedures that are consistent and fair under all circumstances.”

HVIA Chief Technical Officer, Paul Caus has been representing HVIA in the NHVR’s Roller Brake Test Working Group.

“HVIA has worked closely with the NHVR and the ATA to ensure we end up with an in-service brake test that is fair, robust and provides an assurance that a vehicle’s brakes are performing,” Mr Caus said.

“Following the recent release of the National Roadworthiness Baseline Survey, it was clear that further work needed to be carried out on an appropriate and fair procedure, particularly for trailers.

“That is what today was all about. We have compared all sorts of different scenarios including trailers fitted with advanced braking systems, such as stability control and ABS.

“Importantly, we are looking at the vehicles as they are typically presented at a roadside test station or mobile test unit. There was no special preparation of vehicles to try and get the best test results.”

Roger Weeks, Director of Compliance with Roads and Maritime Services said the new system would provide a higher level of safety and ensure the industry was operating under a fair and reliable regime.

“Roads and Maritime looks forward to ensuring these reforms are transitioned smoothly,” he said.

September 29 sees the end of the transition period to the NHVIM. The testing will ensure that procedures are in place at the Heavy Vehicle Safety Station and that mobile test units provide accurate and consistent results in line with national standards.

NHVR Chief Engineer, Les Bruzsa welcomed industry’s commitment to working with the NHVR on a test that is practical, robust and repeatable across the country.

The ATA’s Ben Maguire praised the NHVR and RMS for their efforts in working with industry.

Roller brake tests to ensure practical outcomes

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